A recent poll from New Hampshire indicates that Vice President JD Vance has 36% support among likely GOP primary voters, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio has 26%. This represents a significant change from a previous poll in February, where Vance led Rubio 53% to 7%. The University of New Hampshire (UNH) Granite State Poll was released this week.
Vance is often viewed as a leading candidate for the Republican nomination for the 2028 presidential election, following President Donald Trump's administration. However, Rubio's support has increased in national polls and key early-voting states. Rubio's rise is attributed to his growing public profile and responsibilities, including his role in U.S. operations in Venezuela and ongoing conflicts in Iran.
In the UNH survey, Senator Rand Paul received 8% support, while former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis garnered 8% and 6%, respectively. David Carney, a Republican consultant, noted that the poll results primarily reflect a competition between Vance and Rubio.
Trump has publicly praised Rubio, stating he would be remembered as a significant Secretary of State. He has also suggested a potential Vance-Rubio ticket but has not indicated who would lead the ticket. Despite Vance's current frontrunner status, some Republican donors are reportedly looking for ways to enhance Rubio's political profile, which has raised concerns among Vance's supporters.
Vance has expressed his friendship with Rubio and downplayed any perceived rivalry, while acknowledging the influence Trump will have on the 2028 nomination process. A Republican strategist warned that Vance's position could be precarious if issues arise during the next two years.